Cranberry Township, PA – As the final swing of summer gives way to crisp fall mornings, the North Catholic High School girls soccer team is gearing up for a season of ambition and momentum. Serving Cranberry Township families and the wider Route 228 corridor, the Trojanettes are determined to build on last year’s solid showing with renewed depth and league aspirations.
A Legacy to Build On
The Trojanettes, historically competitive within the WPIAL (Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League), return several key contributors from last season. Seniors and midfield anchors—including Nina Bond, Mikaela Canzian, Breanna Rock, Simone Sharpless, and Reagan Young—are names familiar to fans at J.C. Stone Field. Their leadership on and off the pitch will be vital, especially as younger players continue to step into the spotlight.
Head Coach DJ Sharpless, entering his fourth season, said his seniors set the tone for the team: “My seniors are the key leaders. We have a young team and with this comes hard work, but I love seeing everyone put in the effort.”
Leadership & Team Growth
For Sharpless, the team’s goals this season go beyond wins and losses. “To work as a team,” he emphasized. “Soccer has become a very selfish game, and I work hard to give each position recognition. It’s unfortunate that only the scorers get the credit. I want every player to feel valued.”
That team-first mentality is reinforced in the squad’s day-to-day practices. Sharpless noted the biggest improvement since last season has been the enthusiasm and love for the game. “We have fun and are enjoying each other—getting to know the new players and reconnecting with the upperclassmen.”
Tactics & Adjustments
Strategically, the Trojanettes will rely on flexibility rather than sticking to one formation. “We’re not as strong technically as in years past,” Sharpless admitted. “So I have to move everyone around depending on the demands of the game. I also have a creative staff who works with me to develop strategies tailored to each opponent.”
The focus, he said, is on balancing possession with creating scoring opportunities: “Every game plan is about adapting. That’s what keeps us competitive.”
Competition Ahead
The WPIAL schedule leaves no easy matches, and Sharpless is realistic about the challenges. “Our entire section is tough,” he said. “I expect split results and great matches.”
Still, some games carry special meaning. “Senior Day is always important—it’s a celebration of family for our team. This year it will be on October 4.”
Team Culture & Values
Sharpless is passionate about the culture he’s cultivating: “There is no ‘I’ in team. I know it’s cliché, but the sport has changed, and if I can bring that team mentality back, I would love to.”
For him, success won’t be measured strictly by stats. “I really don’t place emphasis on numbers. What I hope is that each player finishes the season having learned something about themselves. Of course, making the playoffs and doing well in them is always a goal.”
Community Support
While girls’ soccer often doesn’t draw the largest crowds, Sharpless sees community support as vital. “Our families and boosters bring energy to each game,” he said. “Come to J.C. Stone Field to catch a game. This is a fun group to watch—fun because they have to work hard, and they really do.”
Looking Ahead
For players hoping to compete beyond high school, Sharpless offered perspective. “I’ve been through the recruitment process with my two older daughters, and I want to scream from the mountains: college recruiting doesn’t come from high school. High school is for fun.”
When asked what moment he’d most like the community to remember this season, Sharpless didn’t hesitate: “Our team raising the WPIAL trophy.”